Advisory Council

Students majoring in communication at the College of Charleston have a rare and distinguishing opportunity to have direct access to top-level national executives and leaders in the field of marketing and corporate communications through the Department of Communication’s Advisory Council. The Council consists of an outstanding and nationally prominent group of communication professionals who actively support the department in creating and improving COMM programs, providing co-curricular opportunities, mentoring students, and celebrating and encouraging the many accomplishments of the department's students and faculty.

The current chair of the Advisory Council is Mr. Hayes Roth. A seven year Council veteran, Mr. Roth is Principal of HA Roth Consulting LLC and is based in New York. Read more.

The Council began in 2006 and has featured an impressive and diverse team of more than 50 professionals volunteering their time, lending their talent, sharing their knowledge, and preparing CofC communication students for a career in Communications and life after graduation.

Council members have been integral creating opportunities for communication students. For instance, the Council established a scholarship called the John Palmer Communication Award. John, a longtime NBC White House Correspondent as well as an NBC Today Show anchor, was a founding member of the Council. Additionally, the Council members participate in a mentor-protege program, serving as a career coach for communication majors.

Another recent opportunity created for students is the Martin Scholars Program, founded by Council member and executive in residence, Prof. Tom Martin and his wife Wanda. Intended to inspire future generations of leaders and mentors among outstanding communication majors and minors at the College of Charleston, the Martin Scholars Program provides invaluable networking opportunities for students to meet with leaders in the communication profession.

The department hosts bi-annual conferences with the Advisory Council during the fall and spring semesters. During these conferences, Council members engage directly with students in the COMM classrooms answering student questions about their successful careers and delving into relevant Communications topics from a real world perspective. Council members also lead panel discussions with their peers and provide students a candid view inside their respective fields, making lasting connections with students, faculty, staff, and the community at these conferences. Furthermore, access to all Council members is available and encouraged throughout the year for all CofC Communication students.

The Department of Communication is especially thankful for the Advisory Council’s time and commitment to communication students at the College of Charleston.